5 essential practices to welcome a new employee

As a new employee at Tractive, I got to experience first-hand how one of Austria’s most innovative tech start-ups welcomes a new employee into their ranks. Great companies often have a few things in common, including these 5 essential factors for a successful onboarding:

Establish a first name basis

Many companies require the use of surnames when addressing fellow employees. What they don’t realize is that this can actually lessen the cohesion of the group and decrease team member morale!

A first name basis levels the playing field and increases accessability in the workplace.

In our first email contact, Tractive laid the groundwork for a first name basis working relationship. This reflects the flat corporate hierarchy, laid-back and efficient working style, and emphasis on direct and open communication at Tractive.

Be open to change

Flexibility in the workplace is often overlooked in favor of strict rules intended to maintain order. However, companies that embrace flexibility in the workplace often enjoy cost savings, increased productivity, and improved recruiting and retention.

Just before my second interview, I became sick – and worried that this would be viewed unfavorably. However, the Tractive team understood and we rescheduled – so that we could meet when I was feeling my best. This helped me to be relaxed and at ease when it was finally time to interview.

Flexibility indicates how well the employer is able to respond to change.

Be courteous to new employees

Too often, companies overlook small yet important details when hiring new employees.

By taking the time to treat your new hire as a welcomed guest, new employees will want to stay longer in your organization!

Even before I was offered the position, I was offered a tour of the office. Then, on my first day, I was promptly introduced to all team members personally!

Marlene, the HR Manager at Tractive, also made sure I was completely comfortable during each interview and that thoughtfulness and thoroughness continued throughout onboarding. For example, she took the time to explain each part of my contract to me in detail – so that nothing would get lost in translation – an important detail when working in a new country!

Match individual interests to work responsibilities

Some companies fail to consider employee interests and motivations when assigning work tasks – with devastating consequences!

Employees won’t last long in a company that doesn’t seek to utilize and develop their passions.

Once my initial training was complete, I was thrilled when leaders at Tractive encouraged me to work on tasks that I enjoy. Now in addition to Customer Service, I am also gaining experience in Content Management as I oversee the Help Center and Twitter page!

Help your team members thrive

A career in a fast-growing, innovative start-up can be demanding.

The most competitive companies understand this and provide generous benefits to ensure team members have a good work-life balance and take care of their personal well-being.

Two of my favorite perks at Tractive are the free yoga courses and German language classes. While I would normally try to organize these things for myself, Tractive has taken the initiative for me and thus encouraged me to thrive in both my personal and professional endeavors!

For all of the reasons above, I’d like to say thank you to Tractive for making my experience as a new employee completely enjoyable!